Activities in Curaçao — What to Do
Curaçao is far more than sun and beach. The island has a spectacular underwater world, a UNESCO World Heritage city, impressive national parks and unique wildlife. As residents of Jan Thiel, we've experienced almost everything ourselves. These are our absolute top activities — for every type of holiday guest.
1. Diving — world-class underwater
Curaçao ranks among the world's top 10 diving destinations, and for good reason. The island has more than 65 official dive sites along the south coast, with healthy coral reefs, visibility up to 30 metres and rich biodiversity. Must-dives: the car wreck at Tugboat Beach, the Blue Room cave and Mushroom Forest.
Several dive schools near Jan Thiel offer beginner courses (PADI Open Water), guided dives and equipment hire. You can also dive independently at many sites — Curaçao is one of the few islands where this is easily possible.
2. Snorkelling at Directors Bay and the Blue Room
Not certified to dive? No problem — Curaçao has excellent snorkelling spots accessible without a course. Directors Bay, just a few minutes' drive from Jan Thiel, has one of the richest coral reefs on the island. The Blue Room is accessible by boat and has a magical blue glow from light filtering through the underwater entrance.
Hire snorkel gear locally or buy it cheaply at a local shop. A snorkel tour with a local guide is also recommended — they know exactly where the turtles and octopus hide.
3. Exploring Willemstad — UNESCO World Heritage
Willemstad is the capital of Curaçao and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The historic city centre is a colourful canvas of Dutch-Caribbean colonial architecture. Walk across the floating Queen Emma Bridge, explore the districts of Punda and Otrobanda, and visit the floating market with Venezuelan traders.
Set aside an afternoon for the Curaçao Museum or a harbour cruise. In the evening, the illuminated facades along the Handelskade are an unforgettable sight. Willemstad is 10 minutes' drive from Jan Thiel.
4. Hiking the Christoffelberg
The Christoffelberg is the highest point on Curaçao (375 metres) and the hike to the summit is one of the finest experiences on the island. The walk takes about 2 to 3 hours and passes through Christoffel National Park — home to unique flora, white-tailed deer and exceptional bird species.
Set off early in the morning (before 8am) to avoid the heat and bring plenty of water. The trail is clearly marked but steep. At the top you have a 360-degree panorama over the entire island — absolutely worth it.
5. Hato Caves — underground adventure
The Hato Caves are a system of limestone caves near Willemstad airport, decorated with stalactites, stalagmites and ancient rock art by the Arawak people. Guided tours take about 45 minutes and offer a fascinating insight into the geological and cultural history of the island.
Bats live in the cave entrance — a special sight for children and adults alike. The location also pairs well with a stop at the salt pans at Jan Kok nearby, where you can spot wild flamingos.
6. Catamaran trip — a day at sea
A day on a catamaran along the Curaçao coast is one of the most relaxing and memorable experiences on the island. Most trips depart from Willemstad harbour or Bapor Kibra and stop at several snorkel spots, including the famous Blue Room.
Open bar, fresh fruit, snorkel stops and sometimes a swim stop at a quiet bay where you can jump off the boat — a perfect holiday day. Book ahead, as the most popular trips fill up fast. Or go for the sunset version with cocktails in the evening.
7. Dolphin Academy — dolphins up close
At the Dolphin Academy on the grounds of the Renaissance Hotel near Willemstad, you can swim and snorkel with dolphins. There are various programmes, from a brief encounter to a full swimming adventure. A unique experience, especially for children.
Book well in advance — this is one of the most popular activities on Curaçao and spaces are limited. The dolphins are protected and the programmes focus on education alongside entertainment.
8. Kitesurfing and water sports
The constant trade winds make Curaçao a paradise for kitesurfers and windsurfers. The most popular spots are Caracas Bay and Playa Canoa on the east side. For beginners, kite schools have instructors who can get you on a board within a few days.
Not your thing? Paddleboarding, kayaking and boat hire are equally available from Spanish Water — a large sheltered lagoon 15 minutes from Jan Thiel. Ideal for a relaxed half-day on the water.
9. Island road trip by hire car
A hire car is essential on Curaçao — the island is 60 km long and has virtually no public transport. With a car you can combine the best spots in a single day: the west coast beaches (Playa Knip, Playa Lagun, Cas Abao), Shete Boka National Park in the north, and the Christoffel Park.
Book well in advance in high season. Drive to the western beaches early in the morning and return via the north for the dramatic rocky coastline of Shete Boka. A magnificent full-day route.
10. Spotting flamingos at Jan Kok
At the salt pans of Jan Kok on the west coast, wild flamingos live in their natural habitat. They can be seen almost every day, sometimes in large groups. The best time is early morning or late afternoon, when they're most active.
Drive slowly along the salt pans and bring binoculars for the best view. There's no entry fee. Combine the visit with a stop at the nearby beach house or a detour to Playa Forti for a swim or a drink with a view.
Stay in Jan Thiel
Base yourself at Villa Vidalou
From Villa Vidalou in Jan Thiel you're within 10 minutes of Willemstad and at most 45 minutes from every corner of the island. Our luxury villa has a private pool, palapa and all the comforts for up to 6 guests — the perfect base for your active holiday in Curaçao.